Spot on. Go into the military for ONE reason only - because you love your country and you're willing to serve in whatever facet the government puts you in. If you want to build time for the majors, or increase your QOL - you're going in for all the wrong reasons.

Every since I could walk (or waddle) I wanted to be a fighter pilot and I did everything in my power to make that happen - i.e. good grades in high school, going to the Air Force Academy, etc. etc. However, above all I wanted to serve my country and I was OK with the fact I may not get a pilot training slot or even after pilot training a fighter cockpit. If you're cool with that, then no matter what happens - you'll be happy in any job in the military. And BTW - serving your country is EXTREMELY rewarding and self gratifying. I can honestly say that (with the minor bullsh*t aside) I've wholeheartedly enjoyed the last 8 + years of my life.

 

Scheduling on AD is strictly seniority based. Typically, you bid your schedule the month prior and know exactly what days you'll have off three weeks prior to the next USAF bid month. Once you get your line, the scheduler can't make changes to your line without adhering strictly to the USAF Pilot Contract.

Perhaps some others can chime in with some examples from their experiences over the years.

Good luck.

Fred

 

Nice. You still got a copy of that contract, I misplaced mine.

 

Same here -- I think I need to file few a grievances.

 

Absolutely! You still have the 5 year timeline though, however, lots of caveats. Reason I suggested they PM if interested in details for strategy. I will post some reasons later when I have some time.
Best to you.

 

Just don't dime out your friends to look good for the instructors. Get ranked in the end and don't worry about it until then. UPT will be much more fun. Every plane has good/bad. Pick what you want and not what others say you need. I went fighters years ago, but in todays Air Force, other routes might be a lot more enjoyable.

First: Brown nosing gets you no where in class and in life. Your friends will see right through it and will be resentful.

2nd: These will be your friends for life. Just check the message boards and you will see some of these friendships go way back. AF dudes have very long memories (good and bad).

Fish Alaska